The UK government launches a £40 million fund to drive local digital advancements and maximise 5G benefits across various sectors
This significant step towards unleashing the potential of 5G technology by introducing a £40 million fund. This fund of many, by the UK government aims to stimulate local digital revolutions and capitalise on the benefits of 5G connectivity nationwide in Britain.
The fund will empower local areas across the UK to enhance their digital connectivity and develop cutting-edge wireless technologies. These advancements are expected to revolutionise healthcare, agriculture, transport, and public services.
Boosting connectivity through 5G benefits
Starting today, local and regional authorities can apply for a share of the multi-million-pound fund.
The primary objective is accelerating innovation in advanced manufacturing, transport, agriculture, and public services, thus creating better-connected communities across the UK.
Creating 5G innovation regions for economic growth
The funding will establish 5G Innovation Regions, allocating resources to areas demonstrating their capability to drive the development and adoption of 5G and other advanced technologies.
This initiative aims to ensure that towns, cities, and rural areas can take full advantage of the potential offered by advanced wireless connectivity and digital technologies while attracting commercial investment to fuel economic growth.
Transformative applications of 5G technology
The applications of 5G technology are diverse and impactful. For instance, the funds could connect sensors that analyse and improve air quality by optimising traffic management.
Furthermore, 5G-enabled drones could be deployed to gather essential data on weather and environmental conditions, benefiting various industries. Research indicates that widespread adoption of 5G could lead to productivity benefits amounting to £159 billion by 2035.
UKTIN to launch nationwide campaign
To further propel 5G adoption in crucial sectors such as transport and manufacturing, the UK Telecoms Innovation Network (UKTIN) will launch a nationwide campaign.
The campaign aims to facilitate collaboration between businesses, telecom providers, and vendors, helping them understand the advantages of 5G-enabled services and how they can leverage this technology.
Helping communities through innovative technologies
The initiative aligns with the government’s plans to level up every community in the UK through improved connectivity and world-class digital infrastructure. It underpins deploying innovative technologies like artificial intelligence, self-driving vehicles, and digital twins.
The successful 5G Innovation Regions will receive support from the government to develop their digital ecosystems, fostering local growth and innovation. Applications will be open until September 10, 2023, with winning bidders expected to be announced later this year.
